Debate is going on in the House over the Federal Election Integrity Act (HR 4844) which would require those who vote to provide government issued photo ID.

Update This bill has passed 228-196. See the votes for and against

The main arguments for this are to curb voter fraud at the polls. A logical idea. This would stop illegal aliens from voting.

Those against it are claiming it's a poll tax on the poor, minorities and elderly and that they can't afford to get a drivers license or passport. They fail to mention that the bill includes a portion to pay for free for the poor who can't afford a photo ID. They also claim that there is no proof of there even being a voter fraud problem. However, without any current way to track it there is no way to know how large the problem is. It certainly exists no matter how much they'd like to deny it. These people want illegal aliens to vote.

The also continuously bring up the voter rights act, as if that has anything to do with proving you are who you are and that you're eligible to vote.

Democrats call it a Republican ploy to enact a poll tax on the poor.

Polls show that 80-90% of the American public support this action.

The only reason someone would be against a bill like this is if they actually want voter fraud to continue. I can see no other reason. With it not costing the poor anything there is absolutely no reason or argument to stand against this.

For voters who don't see the point in this, let me point out that if you vote and someone fraudulently votes for someone else, they have effectively made your vote and your voice in this country as a citizen worthless.

This would enact the law by the November 2008 general election.

Update This bill has passed 228-196. See the votes for and against

Full text of bill